Southern pipe bands to compete

Skirling and whirling ...Hokonui Celtic Pipe Band members step out in practice as they prepare for
competitions at the weekend and the national championships in Nelson in March. PHOTO: SANDY EGGLESTON

Pipe band enthusiasts will have the opportunity to watch the Hokonui Celtic Pipe Band compete in Gore on Sunday.
Pipe bands from Invercargill will also compete in the event, to be held on the reserve opposite Gore Main School, in Ardwick St, from 2pm.
Pipe band secretary Vicki Kelly said spectators would be welcome to the competition which would help the bands prepare for the national championships in Nelson next month.
“There’s a lot of people who enjoy the pipe band music.
“Once people know it’s on, we usually get a good crowd,” Mrs Kelly said.
Each band would complete a set, medley and street march and three juvenile bands would also compete.
If the weather was wet the event would still be held but probably indoors, she said.
Refreshments would be available.
The bands would also compete in Invercargill on Saturday.